PARC Suspends Officers Over Recruitment Irregularities
The PARC recruitment case has led the Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC) to suspend several officers. Authorities accused the officers of involvement in irregularities during the organisation’s hiring process.Officials from the Ministry of National Food Security and Research informed a Senate committee about the action. They said disciplinary proceedings had also started under the Efficiency and Disciplinary Rules.
The case remains before the court. Therefore, officials continue to handle the matter through legal and disciplinary channels.The issue came under discussion during a meeting of the Senate Standing Committee on National Food Security and Research. Senator Syed Masroor Ahsan chaired the meeting.Committee members questioned officials about the recruitment process. They also criticised the absence of a written response and supporting documents.
Committee raises concerns over applicants
Members also discussed candidates who applied for PARC positions during the disputed recruitment process. Some candidates could become ineligible because they are nearing or have crossed the prescribed age limit.The committee proposed a solution for these applicants. Members suggested allowing them to apply for future vacancies despite exceeding the age limit.
They linked the proposal to the candidates’ earlier participation in the disputed recruitment process. However, officials will need to address the matter within the relevant rules.The committee also sought greater clarity about future recruitment procedures. Members stressed the need for transparency and proper documentation.
Provincial quotas to cover all posts
The committee further pressed officials to apply provincial quotas across all PARC positions. Members specifically asked officials to include lower-grade jobs under the quota system.Officials told the committee that they had completed the required formalities. They also confirmed that PARC would implement the provincial quota system.
The development highlights concerns surrounding recruitment practices at a major agricultural research body. It also shows the Senate committee’s focus on fair and transparent hiring.Meanwhile, the disciplinary proceedings against the suspended officers will continue. The court will also consider the legal aspects of the recruitment case.The committee is expected to monitor further developments. It will also seek updates on recruitment reforms and quota implementation at PARC.
